PASSION FOR PONY CLUB

Driven by a passion for education and horsemanshipan interview with Thelma Fox, DC of Irene Midrand Pony Club.

Thelma Fox is busy, very busy, doing a great job of heading up the Irene Midrand Branch of the South African Pony Club. Thelma took some time out to share with us her reasons for her passion for Pony Club and the successes of the Gauteng-based Irene Midrand Branch.

Thelma believes times may change, but value endures. Founded in the UK in 1929, the Pony Club is the world’s largest equestrian youth organisation, inspiring generations of young riders, with many going on to become medal winners. The Pony Club is volunteer led by those with a shared passion for horses and ponies. The Pony Club stands for education in riding and horsemanship with a structured and internationally recognised training system – that’s right! - Pony Club Efficiency Tests are recognised worldwide! And whether or not you have your own horse or pony, there is a membership option for you.

The South African Pony Club has a storied history, producing a host of incredible alumni who have gone on to achieve great things in the equestrian world and beyond. From international competitors to community leaders, former members of the Pony Club continue to embody the spirit of dedication and excellence that the organisation stands for.

The Pony Club's values of sportsmanship, horsemanship, welfare, and community are as relevant today as they were when Pony Club was founded. Here in South Africa, we're proud to be part of this international tradition. Our vibrant and active South African Pony Club branches provide young riders with opportunities to learn, compete, and grow.

Irene Midrand stands as a shining example of the Pony Club values. It has a vibrant membership and a commitment to nurturing young equestrians and upholds the values of horsemanship, sportsmanship, and community, reflecting the spirit of the Pony Club. Pony Club is not only for younger members; you can be part of Pony Club till you are 25.

Irene Midrand Activities

Irene Midrand recently hosted its annual Pony Club Camp welcoming members from the Rand Hunt, Benoni Boksburg Branches and Dassies Centre, creating a fun-filled learning environment where camaraderie and competition thrived.

Thelma reflects on the camp’s success and the club’s ongoing commitment to equestrian sports:

The Pony Club Camp is always a highlight for us,” she shares. “It’s not just about the riding; it’s about bringing young people together, instilling a sense of community, and celebrating our shared passion for horses.

Camp not only includes fun but also achievement, with assessments for Achievement Badges and Efficiency Tests being held.

The Pony Club Badges and Efficiency Tests

One of the cornerstone features of the Pony Club’s educational framework is its robust Achievement Badge and Efficiency Test system. These programmes are designed to encourage members to develop their riding and horse care skills, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive education in horsemanship.

Building skills

Achievement Badges

These are our building blocks to the Efficiency Tests. The Pony Club offers a variety of Mini and Achievement Badges that recognise proficiency in specific areas of horse care and riding.

The club’s Equine Badges cover essential topics such as grooming, tack cleaning, riding, competitions, and understanding horse behaviour, encouraging members to become well-rounded horsemen and women. The Non-Equine Badges include areas covering first aid, map reading, and environmental awareness, providing a holistic approach to the members’ education and personal development.

The Mini and Achievement Badges are a wonderful way to engage our members and provide them with a sense of accomplishment as they learn new skills,” Thelma notes. “They offer a fun and educational way to explore different aspects of horsemanship and beyond. Getting the feeding a pony a carrot badge is just as important as getting a badge on the care of the hoof.

Achieving excellence

The Efficiency Tests are structured to guide members from basic to advanced proficiency levels. The levels range from the introductory E Standard, which focuses on foundational riding and horse care, to the prestigious A Standard.

The A Test encompasses advanced riding skills, including showjumping and cross-country, as well as a thorough understanding of horse anatomy, physiology, and care. It is a demanding test that requires candidates to demonstrate a high level of competence. The A Test is highly regarded within the international equestrian community and is definitely a feather in the cap of anyone who holds the A. It is also highly respected by potential employers in the equine industry, similar to having advanced vocational qualifications or professional certifications. It demonstrates an individual’s comprehensive understanding and capability in managing and riding horses at a professional standard.

The A Test is a rigorous examination that requires a deep understanding of both practical and theoretical aspects of equestrianism. It’s not just about riding ability but also demonstrating a comprehensive knowledge of horse care and management. But our members all have to start somewhere, and we place as much importance on our members getting their E efficiency as we do their A!

Our success in the virtual dressage challenge is a testament to our members’ hard work and dedication,” Thelma says proudly. “It’s wonderful to see our riders excel on an international stage, showcasing their skills and representing the South African Pony Club with distinction.

Irene Midrand’s Shea Wright was a member of the winning SAPC team competing in Zimbabwe last year.

Highveld Horse Unit Fundraiser

Quiz Fundraiser and the Tale of HHCU Impy

Earlier this year, the Irene Midrand Pony Club recently hosted a Quiz Fundraiser at TLC at Kyalami Equestrian Park to support fostering a pony from the Highveld Horse Care Unit. The event successfully raised funds to welcome HHCU Impy, a once-abandoned pony, into the club. Impy, previously scavenging to survive, has now found a nurturing environment where he is thriving.

The interbranch events are significant highlights for us. They offer a platform for our riders to demonstrate their skills and foster a sense of unity and shared purpose. We're excited to see our members shine and to celebrate their achievements.

Continuing the legacy

The Pony Club has been a cornerstone of equestrian education for nearly a century,” Thelma adds . “Its legacy of promoting excellence in riding and horse care, combined with a strong sense of community, is what keeps it vibrant and alive today. We’re proud to carry this legacy forward here at Irene Midrand, and we look forward to many more years of fostering the next generation of equestrian talent.

To contact the Irene Midrand Pony Club, reach out to Thelma at foxthelma@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.